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Time-constrained Dynamic Mechanisms for College Admissions

Author

Listed:
  • Juan Pereyra

  • Li Chen
  • Min Zhu

Abstract

Recent literature shows that dynamic matching mechanisms may outperform standard mechanisms in delivering desirable results. We highlight an under-explored design dimension: the time constraints that students face under such a dynamic mechanism. First, we theoretically explore the effect of time constraints and show that the outcome can be worse than the outcome produced by the student-proposing deferred acceptance mechanism. Second, we present evidence from Inner Mongolian university admissions, which indicates that time constraints can prevent dynamic mechanisms from achieving stable outcomes, thereby creating losers and winners among students.

Suggested Citation

  • Juan Pereyra & Li Chen & Min Zhu, 2025. "Time-constrained Dynamic Mechanisms for College Admissions," Documentos de Trabajo/Working Papers 2509, Facultad de Ciencias Empresariales y Economia. Universidad de Montevideo..
    • Handle: RePEc:mnt:wpaper:2509
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    File URL: https://www2.um.edu.uy/fcee_papers/2020/Time_constrained_Dynamic_Mechanisms_for_College_Admissions.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C78 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Bargaining Theory; Matching Theory
    • D47 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Market Design
    • D78 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Positive Analysis of Policy Formulation and Implementation
    • D82 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Asymmetric and Private Information; Mechanism Design

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